Mary Parizek, BSW, MSW, APSW, SAC-IT
Mary Parizek, BSW, MSW, APSW, SAC-IT, holds extensive experience in social work, behavioral health, and higher education. With a strong foundation in both undergraduate and graduate social work from the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee, she has dedicated over a decade to supporting individuals across the lifespan. Her career began in county services, where she provided case management for older adults and adults with disabilities, including crisis intervention and advocacy for those affected by abuse or neglect. She later transitioned to mental health and addiction recovery, working as a therapist in residential facilities, refining her expertise in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Motivational Interviewing, narrative therapy, and family support.
Currently serving as a University Case Manager, Mary connects students to resources both on campus and within the broader community, ensuring holistic support that empowers students to navigate academic and personal challenges. In her role, she blends her clinical knowledge with organizational skills, guiding students through complex systems and providing individualized care plans. Beyond her professional responsibilities, Mary has demonstrated leadership through her involvement in committees and employee engagement initiatives, fostering a culture of compassion, resilience, and collaboration within her workplace.
Mary’s success is rooted in her strong personal values, open-mindedness, and commitment to inclusivity and community. She actively volunteers with PFLAG, supporting LGBTQ+ families and fostering understanding of diverse identities. Outside of work, Mary enjoys music festivals, crafting, and creative projects that allow her to express her artistic side. Her professional journey reflects a passion for helping others, a dedication to lifelong learning, and a steadfast commitment to empowering individuals to reach their full potential.
• BSW – Bachelor of Social Work
• MSW – Master of Social Work
• APSW – Advanced Practice Social Worker
• SAC-IT – Substance Abuse Counselor – Independent Trainee
• Certificate in Gerontology
• University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee – Master’s degree, Social Work
• University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee – Bachelor’s degree, Social Work
• First Place in Student Research
• Phi Alpha Honor Society Member
• Social Work Club President
• Common Ground Core Team Member
• Mount Mary University NASW Student Ambassador
• Blessed Mother Theresa of Gerhardinger Award
• Social Work Academic Major Award
• Social Work Award
• English Department Creativity Award
• National Association of Social Workers
• PFLAG
What do you attribute your success to?
I attribute my success to having a strong personal value system, the encouragement to embrace differences, and a commitment to open-mindedness and collaboration. My upbringing and spirituality have guided me to approach each situation with empathy, integrity, and a focus on helping others.
What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
Know your values and make decisions that bring you closer to them. This guidance has helped me navigate career transitions and choose roles that align with both my professional goals and personal life.
What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
Know your values and make decisions that bring you closer to them. This guidance has helped me navigate career transitions and choose roles that align with both my professional goals and personal life.
What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
Integrity, empathy, inclusivity, and the ability to embrace and learn from differences. I also value strong community connections, collaboration, and using my skills to make a meaningful impact on others' lives.
Locations
Rogers Behavioral Health
Walkinshaw, WI 53186